Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition (Southbound)
Explore the frozen continent of Antarctica in its late spring, when penguin colonies start nesting
Visit stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cruise deep Chilean fjords
See vibrant Valparaíso, the stilt houses of Castro, and the spectacular mountains surrounding Puerto Natales
Wildlife and Fjords
From Valparaíso, you’ll tour the Chilean fjords and waterways of Patagonia, stopping at rustic Castro and Puerto Natales, where you may get the chance to hike in Torres del Paine National Park. Weather permitting, we’ll attempt to land at legendary Cape Horn after crossing the Drake Passage on our way back from the White Continent.
Icescapes and penguins
Guided by your Expedition Team, you’ll spend four incredible days exploring Antarctica’s immense, pristine icescapes. Springtime is courting season, meaning you will be able to observe penguins’ mating rituals. There's no set schedule; we adapt our itinerary to take every opportunity to get closer to nature and enjoy unique experiences on ice cruises and landings.
Key Expedition Details
Itinerary
Your adventure at a glance. Daily highlights, included activities, and optional extras to make it unforgettable.
Witness scenic landscapes filled with wildlife
We’ll depart Puerto Natales in the morning as the tides and currents allow and sail through the White Narrows again. Then, your journey south along the Chilean coast will take you through the ruggedly beautiful, broken island chains of the fjords of Magallanes Province. Isolated islands and hidden bays create a rich haven for wildlife.
Whether cruising aboard our small expedition boats or just out on deck, look out for colonies of Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, and various species of whale. You may also see majestic waterfalls along this dramatic and beautiful section of coastline.
Get Ready for Antarctica
Over the next two days, we'll navigate legendary Drake Passage toward Antarctica. En route, you'll find out what lies ahead and how to make your visit as safe and sustainable as possible.
In the Science Center, the Expedition Team will give lectures about Antarctica’s fauna, history, and geology, as well as the impact of climate change and plastic pollution. You can also get involved in our Citizen Science projects.
Relax and learn as we cruise to Argentina
After four incredible days in Antarctica, we’ll sail back across the Drake Passage toward warmer weather in Argentina, giving you an opportunity to enjoy life on board.
We’ll also pass the southernmost tip of South America: Cape Horn. This formidable icon often presents challenging conditions, but weather permitting, we’ll attempt to land there.
During your last few days at sea on board, you can take part in art workshops or perhaps enjoy a treatment in the spa. Get active in the gym or admire the views from the panoramic sauna. Relax in the outdoor pool or soak in the on-deck hot tubs.
Visit the Science Center and find out more about the things you’ve seen, or use the time to sort through your photos and get editing tips from our onboard photographer.
Included activities & excursions
These activities are included with your trip. Dates and times will be confirmed closer to departure, you’ll just need to reserve your spot after booking.
Optional extras
Enhance your journey with optional extras. Some activities are only bookable onboard and can’t be reserved online or by phone. Subject to availability.
Our Antarctica ship
Get a taste of what life is like on board the ships that sail on this itinerary
